Lacey Wells, Bronze Medal Nominee (2018)

Reflection on “Access”

Shaping lives that shape the world. This vision is the undercurrent at Judson University, and everything we learn is driven by this current. After four years of toiling on this river, it is amazing to reflect on the journey. It was more than spending time, energy, and money on schooling. The current has carved channels of access through my life and into the world.

As a Christian University, Judson keeps Christ at the center. Ephesians 2:18 and 3:12 describe how Christians have access to the Father through Christ and the Holy Spirit. My professors reiterate how important this relationship is. Without Christ, we have nothing and are nothing. Through Christ, we are coheirs and have access to the riches and fullness of God. The currents of God-centeredness at Judson have helped deepen the access to the Kingdom within my own life.

With Christ at the center of my life, my desire is to advance the Kingdom of God in the vocation of Architecture. God called me to become a licensed architect, and I could not have fulfilled His calling without developing the required skills in school. Here at Judson I have learned to design, problem solve, and to think. Most importantly, I have learned how to listen effectively and how to be a life-long learner. These skills will give me access to firms and the ability to succeed while I work to shape the world.

My initial journey through school draws near its end, but the currents of Judson will carry me on to an exciting career. My college degree is a key that unlocks access to a career and God’s calling on my life. I have the ability to work at a great firm to prepare me for graduate school and a lifetime of service. I have the opportunity to serve God and His children, both lost and found, by building better communities for them to share. And, above all, I have access to the Kingdom of God, and I have the joy of giving it to others.

“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:2)